Aster laevis

Aster laevis

$12.95

Aster laevis is a graceful native perennial with smooth blue green foliage and clusters of violet blue daisy like flowers that appear in late summer to fall. Its upright form adds seasonal color and texture to sunny landscapes while providing an important late season food source for pollinators.

Height & Spread: 24 - 36 in x 18 - 24 in

Bloom Time: Late summer to fall

Light Requirements: Full sun to part sun

Soil Preference: Average to well drained soil

Watering Needs: Moderate; drought tolerant once established

Deer Resistance: Deer resistant

Native Status

This species is native to much of eastern and central North America where it grows in open woodlands, prairies, and meadows. It is valued in native plantings for its late season flowers and support of local pollinators.

WILDLIFE & INSECTS

Butterflies

  • Provides an important late season nectar source for butterflies including Monarchs, Painted Ladies, and Swallowtails when many other plants have finished blooming.

Bees

  • Attracts native bees and bumblebees which visit the numerous small flowers for nectar and pollen.

Birds

  • Produces seeds that can provide a seasonal food source for songbirds while its dense growth offers additional cover.

Spacing & Landscape Use

Spacing Recommendations

  • Space 18 - 24 in apart to allow the upright clumps to develop while maintaining good air circulation.

Landscape Placement

  • Ideal for native gardens, meadow plantings, sunny borders, and naturalized areas where its fall blooms provide valuable seasonal interest.

Companion Plants

  • Schizachyrium scoparium (Little Bluestem) - Adds fine textured grass foliage and warm fall color that complements the late season blooms.
  • Echinacea purpurea (Purple Coneflower) - Extends pollinator interest earlier in the season with bold summer flowers.
  • Rudbeckia fulgida 'Goldsturm' (Black Eyed Susan) - Provides bright yellow blooms that contrast with the violet blue flowers.
  • Solidago rugosa 'Fireworks' (Goldenrod) - Pairs with asters during fall while providing additional late season pollinator support.
  • Panicum virgatum 'Northwind' (Switchgrass) - Brings upright structure and movement to complement the airy flower clusters.

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